Staying cool on the water and outside during activities this weekend
COLUMBIA, Mo (KMIZ)
As Mid-Missouri remains dangerously warm this weekend, and with boating season in full swing, people should be aware of the effects heat can have on them, while out on the water.
On a bright day, the sun's rays will bounce off the water causing a higher risk of harm from sun exposure. If people plan on spending this weekend on the water, here are some ways to stay cool.
- Try to avoid the hottest times of the day which are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Make sure to protect the eyes. Intense UV rays from the sun can harm one's vision. Wear sunglasses or a hat.
- Always wear SPF. Adults should wear a minimum of SPF 15 and children a minimum of 30 SPF. The sunscreen should be waterproof and sweatproof.
It is also recommended to chill the sunscreen. If there's extra space in the cooler, store the sunscreen in it. This will give it a cooling and soothing effect when you reapply throughout the day.
Officials say it's important to stay hydrated and "eat your water." An easy way to stay hydrated is consuming foods with high water content. Cucumbers, watermelon, grapes and strawberries are great snacks that will also keep one hydrated throughout the day.
Playgrounds have also proven to be a dangerous climate when temperatures reach extremely high temperatures. According to the National Program for Playground Safety, on a hot day, playgrounds could burn a child's skin in less than 3 seconds.
Metal and plastic slides and rubber swing seats tend to burn children because the skin stays in contact with the object for a longer period of time.
To prevent this, children should always wear shoes on the playground to protect their feet from the heat. Pants can also give an extra layer of protection when going down slides and sitting on swings.
Children are easily susceptible to heat illnesses because their bodies regulate temperatures less efficiently than adults. Make sure that children are taking extra breaks when playing outside to hydrate and rest.
